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Psycho-Spiritual and Existential Distress at the End of Life

Psycho-spiritual and existential distress is often an integral component of end-of-life suffering. Clinical research demonstrates that patients diagnosed with advanced-stage cancer often experience hopelessness, despair, and a loss of meaning. For many individuals, a diagnosis of cancer initiates a search for meaning. This presentation will review the findings and implications from FDA-approved psilocybin-generated mystical experience research. Psilocybin is the psychoactive compound found in specific species of mushrooms. Subjective features of a mystical experience include unity, sacredness, transcendence, ineffability, and a greater connection to deeply felt positive emotions including that of love. The NYU clinical trial investigated the efficacy of a single psilocybin-generated mystical experience in helping individuals with cancer and at the end of life cultivate meaning, enhance existential and spiritual well-being, and foster a greater acceptance of the dying process with less anxiety. The landmark scientific findings of a rapid reduction in depression, anxiety, and myriad forms of distress were published in 2016. Clinical case vignettes from the psilocybin study will be discussed.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Identify and describe existential and psycho-spiritual distress in cancer patients and at the end-of-life.

Recognize the importance of meaning and transcendence for a client in existential and end-of-life distress.

Cite specific research on psilocybin and other psychedelics in psychiatry and end-of-life distress.

Describe the psilocybin cancer anxiety research model and implications for palliative care.

Anthony Bossis, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at New York University School of Medicine. He was director of palliative care research, co-principal investigator, and a session guide for the NYU Psilocybin Cancer Anxiety Study and is Project Director for the NYU Psilocybin Religious Leaders Study. He maintains a private psychotherapy practice in NYC.